Archetypes

Be prepared to identify either by definition or example OR be able to define/explain the archetype.

Hero

The protagonist who embarks on a journey, faces trials, and grows through transformation (e.g., King Arthur, Harry Potter).

The Quest

The hero’s journey to achieve a goal or obtain something of great value, often involving trials (e.g., Frodo’s journey to destroy the Ring).

The Initiation

A process in which the hero undergoes a rite of passage or transformation, symbolizing growth or a shift in identity.

The Sacrificial Scapegoat

A character who dies or is blamed/sacrificed for the sins or faults of others (e.g., Jesus, Simon in Lord of the Flies)

The Trickster

 A mischievous or cunning figure who causes change or chaos, often challenging the status quo (e.g., Loki, Bugs Bunny)

The Woman

 A broad archetype including both nurturing and destructive aspects (can be the Good Mother, Terrible Mother, Soul Mate, etc.)

The Good Mother

A nurturing, life-giving, protective figure who offers support (e.g., Fairy Godmother, Mrs. Weasley)

The Terrible Mother

A destructive, smothering, or devouring female figure—associated with fear, control, or seduction (e.g., The witch in Hansel and Gretel)

The Soul Mate

The idealized woman (or man), often inspiring the hero toward spiritual or emotional growth (e.g., Beatrice to Dante)

The Wise Old Man

A mentor figure offering wisdom, guidance, or prophecy (e.g., Gandalf, Yoda)

Red

Passion, anger, violence, or love

Black

Evil, death, or mystery

White

Purity, innocence, or sometimes emptiness/death

Blue

Peace, truth, or sadness

Green

Life, growth, fertility, or envy

Circle

 Wholeness, unity, eternity, the cycle of life and death

Mandala

A geometric symbol representing the universe or wholeness, often with spiritual meaning (common in Eastern traditions)

Egg

 Fertility, birth, creation, potential for life.

Yin/Yang

Balance of opposites—light/dark, male/female, good/evil—often interdependent

Ouroboros

A serpent eating its own tail, symbolizing eternal return, cycles, or self-destruction and rebirth

Tree

Growth, wisdom, life, and connection between heaven and earth (e.g., Tree of Life)

3

Unity (body, mind, spirit), the trinity

4

Stability, order (four seasons, directions)

7

Perfection, completion (seven days of creation)

Immortality

Often symbolized by divine realms, fountains, or the soul's persistence—can refer to eternal life or the desire to transcend death.

Snake/Serpent:

Dual symbol—can represent evil, danger, or temptation (Garden of Eden), or healing, transformation, and rebirth (symbol of medicine)